Ōropi Grove Mountain Bike Park will close from January 7 to late 2025 to allow for a tree harvest and track renewal project to enter its next phase.

The tree harvest portion of the project began in September on the Joyce Rd side of the park because trees within Ōropi Grove have matured and are scheduled for harvest, a Tauranga City Council statement said.

“This is essential to protect the water pipes beneath the reserve which supply drinking water to many Tauranga homes from the Ōropi water treatment plant, and to reduce the risk of older trees falling or dropping debris.

“Track renewals and replanting is expected to begin from early to mid-2025, with a refreshed riding experience expected to be open for summer 2025-26.”

Tauranga City Council was working with Mountainbike Tauranga to ensure the renewed tracks provided options for riders of all ages and abilities, the council said.

“Temporarily closing the park during the tree harvest and track renewal process is vital to ensure public safety at the site.”

While works are under way at Ōropi Grove, riders can enjoy nearby mountain biking tracks, including:

– Summerhill Recreational Trails, 319 Reid Rd, Pāpāmoa Hills.
– TECT Park, SH36, halfway between Tauranga and Rotorua.
– Waitekohekohe Recreational Park, 360 Thompsons Track, Katikati.

Find out more at letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/oropi-grove